In a time of great challenge and even greater opportunity, Sheryl Sandberg, 42, understands intuitively the potential of social networking to create positive change on a grand scale. She's helping people make the most of a more open, more transparent world, as Facebook creates dynamic new connections between individuals, organizations and causes — connections with the power to brighten our shared future, one click at a time. I had the good fortune of meeting Sheryl some years ago, when we teamed up on a gender-equality panel at Davos. To me, she embodies the very best of a new generation of leaders, flourishing and creating shared value in an era of unprecedented technological change and human advancement. Her energy, her passion and her relentless optimism are infectious, inspiring all of us who've had the chance to work with her.
I've often said that this promises to be the women's century, and Sheryl is exactly the kind of refreshing leader who is — by word, deed and example — creating new opportunities, removing obstacles and making a real difference in others' lives. And as a devoted, hands-on mother of two, she is also nurturing the priceless personal connections that matter most.
Kent is the chairman and CEO of the Coca-Cola Co.